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kosta_karapinotis

Active member
Last time I was in Greece, I brought back some Greek mountain tea (Tsai tou vounou) and absolutely love the taste. It’s light, herbal, and feels incredibly soothing. I’ve been drinking it occasionally in the evenings, but now I’m curious to learn more about it as an herb.

I’ve read that it’s popular for its health benefits, like boosting the immune system and helping with digestion. Does anyone have more insight into what makes it so special? Are there any traditional ways to prepare it to really bring out its flavor or maximize its benefits?

Also, if anyone knows whether it’s okay to drink it daily or has other creative ideas for using it (besides tea), I’d love to hear your tips. Thank you!
 
Greek mountain tea is a wonderful choice—its soothing, earthy flavor is matched by its impressive health benefits. Made from the Sideritis plant, it’s rich in antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties, which are believed to support the immune system and digestion. It’s also caffeine-free, making it perfect for daily use.

To enhance its flavor and benefits, try brewing it the traditional way: steep the dried stems, leaves, and flowers in hot (not boiling) water for 5–10 minutes. Add a splash of honey and a squeeze of lemon for a delicious twist.

Beyond tea, some people use it as a base for herbal infusions or even in recipes like soups for a unique flavor. It’s a versatile herb you can enjoy in so many ways!
 

Proper Way to Wrap Lamb Kleftiko?

I recently attempted to make lamb kleftiko at home, but I ran into a bit of a problem. When I wrapped the lamb in parchment paper for baking, the juices leaked all over the place during cooking. It made a mess and I feel like I lost a lot of the flavors.

Am I missing a step in wrapping it correctly? Should I double-wrap the parchment paper, or is foil better? Also, how tightly should it be sealed to trap the juices?

For seasoning, I used garlic, lemon, oregano, and olive oil, but I’d love to hear what spices or herbs you add to give it that authentic Greek flavor. Any tips on wrapping and seasoning would be super helpful.

Greek style grilled Octopus?

I absolutely love grilled octopus, especially when I’ve had it in Greece or at Greek restaurants—it’s always so tender and flavorful with that perfect charred exterior. I’d love to recreate it at home, but I’m not sure where to start.

What’s the best way to prepare it the traditional Greek way? Should I boil or simmer it first to make it tender before grilling? Are there specific marinades or seasonings used in Greek recipes that really bring out its flavor?

I’d also love tips on grilling techniques—how to get that smoky, slightly crispy finish without overcooking it. And if you have any ideas for what to serve alongside it for an authentic Greek-style meal, I’d really appreciate the suggestions!

Buying Coffee to Make Greek Coffee?

I’m a big fan of Greek coffee and love making it in my briki, but I’m trying to figure out the best way to buy coffee for it. I know I can order pre-ground coffee specifically for Greek coffee, but I really prefer the taste of freshly ground coffee.

Does anyone know how to grind coffee properly to get that fine texture needed for Greek coffee? Is there a particular type of coffee bean that works best, or is it more about how it’s ground?

Also, if you grind your own coffee for Greek coffee, what kind of grinder do you use? I’ve heard it has to be as fine as powder, almost like espresso but even finer.

I’d love any tips or advice you have to help me achieve that perfect cup. Thanks so much!

How long do kourabedies last?

I’m planning to bake a big batch of kourabiedes for the holiday season, as they’re always a hit at parties! Since I have multiple events to attend throughout December, I’m wondering how long they stay fresh after baking.

If I make them early in the month, will they still taste great by Christmas Day? I know they’re usually coated in powdered sugar and can be stored in airtight containers, but I’m curious if anyone has tips for keeping them at their best—like whether layering them with parchment paper or storing them in the fridge makes a difference.

Also, would freezing them (either before or after baking) help extend their freshness? I’d love to hear from anyone who’s made kourabiedes ahead of time and has advice on how to keep them delicious for weeks. Thanks!

Orange-Scented Baklava Syrup

My family changed its baklava syrup during Christmas. It involved orange, cinnamon, maybe cloves. I don't quite remember and the recipe got lost! I've tried to figure out what everyone did. It may have died with my grandmother. Her sister is still alive but she never really cooked so has no clue.

I don't know where to start, but I've had a few failed attempts:

- Attempt 1 - Made syrup only from sugar and added orange zest, cinnamon stick, and a few cloves. It tasted bitter and too pungent.
- Attempt 2 - Reduced some of the sugar and water and added honey instead.
- Attempt 3 - Kept the sugar/honey proportions, eliminated the clove, and added an extra cinnamon stick.

Attempt 3 got closer. I feel like I am on a wild goose chase. Did anyone else's families change things up for their baklava around Christmas?
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